Al-Fajr

 A workshop in Alexandria calls for a civil state in Egypt that doesn't resist religion.  The author throws light on a workshop held in Alexandria under the supervision of the Evangelical Church which calls for a civil state.

The workshop assured that the civil state is a mixture of secularism and democracy, and does not neglect religion. Dr. Hishām Sādiq, one of the lecturers, stated that the civil state is the best solution for the problems of the Egyptian society.

 The author presents the new news concerning the problem of the disappearance and re-appearance of the wife of Dayr Mawās' priest, Kāmilīyā Shihātah.
 

Muhammad al-Bāz, author of the article, writes that Shaykh 'Usāmah al-Qūsī, represents a reasonable and balanced voice of salafīyah, quoting his opinions during a TV program.

Sahar al-Ja'ārah said that if there is a counter-revolution then salafists' behavior can be the spearhead of it as they work on intimidating the Egyptian society.

Recent acts of violence by salafīsts terrorize Copts and lead to the formation of anti-revolution impressions on the grounds that it "ended with a religious fascism."

Coptic Pope Shenouda III held a Holy Synod meeting that discussed the continuous attacks by salafists against Copts.

A Synod member revealed that Ayman Mitrī [A Copt whose ear was cut off by salafists for rumors of his relationship with a Muslim woman in Qena] waived his rights in his case against his will.

The meeting agreed that all information about the recent sectarian incidents be documented and sent to the Supreme Council of Armed Forces.

(Reviewer's Note: News story was also covered by al-Misrī al-Yawm, March 30, 2011)

Muhammad al-Bāz writes that it was a good move by the Muslim Brotherhood's murshid [guide], Muhammad Badī', to send a letter to the Coptic Pope Shenouda wishing him well after his health trip.

Ahmad Fāyīq comments on the referendum day, writing that what happened from mainstream Islamists  and from churches in affecting the decision of the voters is a true danger to the future of a civil state. 

He believes that the coming period will be rough. Churches and mosques need to be prevented from getting involved in politics, and the army needs to protect the establishing of a civil state.

Salafīs occupied Egyptian television and Tāmir Āmīn hosts Muhammad Hasān who considered Copts to be infidels and claimed  the professions of medicine, engineering and working in post offices and banks haram [religiously unlawful].

AWR's Diana Maher Ghali writes a press review on three main issues that are currently occupying the pages of newspapers: the second article in the constitution that states: "Islam is the Religion of the State. Arabic is its official language, and the principal source of legislation is Islamic Sharī'ah"; Copts position on the constitutional amendments, finally, electing a Copt as president.

Rāmī Rushdī wrote that the U.S. State Department's report on Religious Freedom in Egypt as usual had many accusations; the Azhar issued a declaration to respond to this report. 

Ahmad al-Tayyib called some political leaders in the country to contribute in responding to U.S. report and he called church officials as well, which was welcomed at first but then it didn't happen in reality.

Rumors has it that church wanted to preserve its relations with the United States and prevent any negative reactions if it contributed in the report with the Azhar.